Eduardo Zapateiro is suspected of interfering in the country’s presidential elections after criticizing candidate Gustavo Petro
The Colombian Attorney General’s Office opened a preliminary investigation against the army commander, General Eduardo Zapateiro, for alleged interference in the presidential campaign. The information was given on Tuesday (26.Apr.2022).
On his Twitter profile, he criticized the favorite in the polls, Senator Gustavo Petro, from the left-wing coalition Pacto Histórico.
Colombia’s constitution prohibits active-duty military personnel from participating in political activities. If proven, the general may face disciplinary sanctions, such as suspension from office.
On Wednesday (20.Apr.2022), Petro criticized a publication in which Zapateiro mourned the death of 6 soldiers in an attack by the Gulf Clan, a paramilitary organization and the country’s main cocaine cartel. He said that some generals were in the “payroll” of the group and that “drug-trafficking politicians” end up rising to generalship.
The army commander responded on Friday (22.Apr.2022), stating that the candidate was using his parliamentary immunity to make “politics” with the death of the soldiers. “As a citizen, I recommend not generalizing. Respect above all”said Zapateiro to Petro.
The comments prompted politicians to call for the general’s resignation from the army command over the alleged violation of the constitution.
Zapateiro was supported by right-wing President Iván Duque, who said it was a legitimate response to a congressman’s insult to the honor of the Armed Forces.
#Colombia #investigate #army #commander #political #action